REUNIONORGANIZERSOPTIMISTIC

About 200 people are expected to attend a black community reunion July 1-3 in Lawrence.

"We're very excited, and it's going to be a success," said Deborah Berry Walker, one of the organizers.

The reunion was conceived several years ago by a former Lawrence resident, Geri Green Austin, who now lives in Moraga, Calif., but who has maintained her Lawrence ties. She tried to get former Lawrence residents to return to the city about 11 years ago for a reunion, but only a few responded. This time around, her idea has caught on and several Lawrence residents are helping her in the effort.

The organizers have enlisted the help of the city's 10 black churches to help get out the word.

"We have over 100 people who are registered," Walker said.

The event begins with registration and hospitality on July 1 at the Days Inn Motel, 2309 Iowa.

Registration will continue on from 9 a.m. to noon July 2 at the motel. A bus tour of Lawrence will be from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a picnic at Broken Arrow Park, 31st and Louisiana. A dance will begin at 9 p.m. at the motel.

July 3 is open for the participants to attend church services and visit sites around Lawrence.